Prepare for your baby even before they arrive with these helpful tidbits for first-time parents.

Your baby is on its way. While you’re painting the nursery, reading up on the best car seats, and preparing your house and life for your new bundle of joy, it’s also important that you determine who your baby’s pediatrician will be. Our Granger, IN, pediatrician Dr. Charisse Johnson has cared for newborns, young children, and teens for more than ten years. We pride ourselves on gentle, loving, and friendly newborn care that supports both mothers and their babies.

When do I need to bring my baby to the pediatrician for the first time? 

Your newborn will visit our Granger, IN, office three to five days after birth. This first visit is crucial because it establishes a baseline of health for your little one from which our team can continue to monitor your baby’s health and development. Your baby will be coming in regularly for the first three years of life, so it’s important that you find a friendly, caring team that you trust.

Is my baby getting enough breast milk? 

This is a common concern among mothers. After all, they want to make sure that their baby is getting all the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong. The good news is that most women produce enough milk to support their babies. If you notice regular wet or soiled diapers and your baby isn’t losing weight, this is a good sign that your baby is getting everything they need.

When will my baby sleep through the night? 

While the National Sleep Foundation states that newborns under three months old should sleep for about 14-17 hours within 24 hours. As most parents will tell you, your baby will not and should not sleep through the night just yet, as they will need to be fed about every two to three hours. Don’t expect your little one to sleep for longer periods (about six to seven hours) until three months old. Most babies are consistently sleeping through the night by six months old.

Do I need to breastfeed for a whole year? 

Whether or not you breastfeed and for how long is entirely up to the mother. We understand that this is a personal decision that only you can make. While some women choose to breastfeed for a year and sometimes more, other women choose to stop after six months. Feel free to talk with our Granger, IN, pediatrician about breastfeeding options to see what feels right for you and your baby.

Before your baby arrives, there is so much to think about, but the last thing you want to be scrambling to find is a pediatrician. That’s why it’s important to find your pediatrician before the baby arrives. Call Premier Pediatrics of Indiana at (574) 855-4575 to schedule a consultation with our Granger, IN, team and see if we’re a great addition to your growing family.